Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer in roasting pans. Sprinkle with pepper, garlic, oregano and basil. Bake for ½ hour. Remove from oven and cover with tomatoes, onions, fennel and mushrooms (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 1-1/2 hours. This dish only improves with reheating.